WVU to dedicate simulated underground coal mine for training

WHO: James P. Clements, WVU president
Gene Cilento, dean of WVU College of Engineering and Mineral Resources
Jim Dean, director of WVU Department of Mining Extension
Chris Hamilton and others, West Virginia Coal Association
Michelle Figaretti, regional representative of Gov. Joe Manchin
Representatives of various area mining companies, rescue brigades, and others

WHAT: Dedication of simulated underground coal mine at WVU Academy of Mine Training and Energy Technologies facility near Morgantown

WHEN: Friday, October 16, 1 p.m. Tours begin at 1 with the dedication and guest speakers to follow at 1:30

WHERE: WVU Academy of Mine Training and Energy Technologies, Dolls Run, West Virginia (near Core)

Directions: From downtown Morgantown, follow Monongahela Boulevard to the Star City Bridge. Cross the bridge. Do not turn left by Sheetz, but follow WV-7/US-19 (straight) for 1.6 miles. Then turn left onto WV-7. Go 3.9 miles. Turn left onto Little Indian Creek Road and go .7 miles. Turn left into Academy for Mine Training and Energy Technologies. Simulated mine is large facility on the top of the hill. (Watch for green highway signs for WVU Mine Training Center.)

Details: President Clements and other WVU officials will dedicate a new
simulated underground coal mine that will be used in training new and
experienced personnel to work in the mines. The new facility is one of the
largest ever constructed and offers integrated live fire training, a unique feature that sets it apart from other similar facilities. It will be used in training mine rescue teams, fire brigade teams, new miners, and others, many of whom will also be on hand for the dedication.

Instructors will conduct tours for the media and other visitors and conduct a live fire demonstration inside the mine.

-WVU-

sc/10/14/09
WVU News on the Web – http://wvutoday.wvu.edu/

CONTACT:
Susan Case, College of Engineering and Mineral Resources
304-293-4086, susan.case@mail.wvu.edu